Blog
If you’re currently diagnosed with sleep apnoea and you’re advised to use a CPAP machine, you might be wondering which CPAP mask suits you best.
CPAP masks have a variety of sizes and shapes and because everyone’s preferences may also differ depending on their wants and their needs, finding the right mask that suits your taste might take some time.
What is Sleep Apnoea?
Some people might not know, but sleep apnoea is a dangerous disease that can threaten your life.
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnoea after completing a sleep self-assessment questionnaire and getting an in-home sleep study done, you’ll most likely be treated with CPAP therapy.
What is CPAP Therapy?
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common and the most effective treatment for sleep apnoea and snoring. But the treatment will only be effective if you’re 100% compliant.
The higher the number of nights and hours that you wear your mask, the higher the chance of having your CPAP treatment a success.
Although wearing the mask is an integral part of having a successful CPAP therapy, still one of the main problems that sleep apnoea sufferers face is having a mask that's uncomfortable to wear.
To help you choose the right mask, here’s a rundown of its different types:
- Nasal CPAP Mask
A Nasal CPAP mask can fit from the bridge of your nose to your upper lip. If you’re someone who needs higher pressure settings, the nasal is a good choice for you.
Use A Nasal Mask If:
- You move around a lot while sleeping
- You need a higher pressure setting
- You suffer from claustrophobia
Do Not Use A Nasal Mask If:
- You use your mouth. If you really want to use a nasal mask you’ll need to wear a chin strap to keep your mouth and jaw closed while the CPAP therapy takes place.
- You have allergies that block your sinuses.
- You find it hard to breathe through your nose due to medical conditions.
- Nasal Pillows
A nasal pillow mask fits around your nostrils. It also includes a headgear that holds the mask in place.
Nasal pillows are a good option for you if you want a mask that doesn’t cover your whole face.
Use A Nasal Pillow If:
- A full CPAP mask makes you anxious.
- You want to have a clear line of sight while using the mask.
- You’re having trouble fitting other CPAP masks to your face because of facial hairs, moles, or the shape of your face.
Do Not Use a Nasal Pillow Of:
- You have sensitive nostrils.
- You’re required to have high pressure during your CPAP therapy.
- You often get nosebleeds.
- Full face mask
A full-face CPAP mask covers both of your nose and your mouth.
Use A Full Face CPAP Mask If:
- You find it hard to breathe through your nose or you suffer from the following: nasal congestions, allergies, or regular colds
- You mostly breathe through your mouth
- You sleep on your back.
- You’re required to have a higher CPAP pressure settings.
Do Not Use A Full Face CPAP Mask If:
- You like to sleep on your stomach
- You haven’t found a CPAP mask that fits you correctly
Keep in mind that the mask’s size, shape, and comfort are the main things to consider when choosing a CPAP mask that’s best for you.
Finding the right CPAP might take some time but it’s definitely worth it in the end. Think about how it will improve your health, your relationships, and on how it will eventually save your life.
If you are having a difficult time finding the right CPAP mask for you, contact your sleep therapist now and discuss your needs today.